Special needs 'navigators' employed in Cornwall

The "navigators" will be a first point of contact for families of children with special educational needs and disabilities

New roles to support the families of children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) have been created at Cornwall Council.

Three 'navigators' have been employed to act as a "first point of contact" for those who think their child might need additional help.

The council said the roles would ensure families with Send children knew they always had "someone at the end of the phone who can help".

Cllr Barbara Ellenbroek, cabinet member for children and families, said the roles would make "a huge difference" to both the Send team and supported families.

She said: “It is one of the council’s priorities to make sure Cornwall is a brilliant place to be a child and grow up, so it is vital that families with Send children know about the support available to them and how best to navigate their journey.

“I look forward to seeing the impact these new staff members will make.”

The council said the three new staff members would help families to access the right support for them.

Rachel Delourme, head of inclusion and Send at Cornwall Council, said she was confident they would "bring different expertise to support better communication, both internally and externally with families and schools".

Training for the navigators is due to begin in November.